UPDATE: In a stunning upset, the No. 1 Arizona Wildcats fell to the Texas Tech Red Raiders 78-75 in overtime on February 10, 2024. This marks Arizona’s second consecutive loss, sending shockwaves through the college basketball landscape.
With a remarkable performance, JT Toppin scored 31 points, including eight crucial points in overtime, sealing the victory for Texas Tech (19-6, 9-3 Big 12). The Wildcats, who were previously undefeated at 23-0, now stand at 23-2 (10-2 Pac-12) after also losing to No. 9 Kansas earlier in the week.
Arizona held a promising 64-57 lead with just over three minutes left in regulation, but Texas Tech mounted a fierce comeback. The Red Raiders executed a decisive 9-0 run, capped by Donovan Atwell‘s three-pointer that gave them a 66-64 edge with only 25 seconds remaining. Arizona’s Ivan Kharchenkov managed to tie the game at 66 with two free throws, but a last-second jumper from Christian Anderson missed the mark, pushing the game into overtime.
In the overtime period, Toppin dominated the court, showcasing his skills with four baskets that featured an array of tip-ins and low-post moves. He finished the game shooting an impressive 13-of-22 from the field and secured 13 rebounds, marking his 47th career double-double. Anderson also contributed significantly with 19 points, including six three-pointers.
The Wildcats faced additional challenges, as they played without star freshman Koa Peat in the second half due to a lower-body injury. Peat, who had contributed two points and a rebound in the first half, was a key player for Arizona. The absence of backup guard Dwayne Aristode, who was sidelined with an illness, left the Wildcats with a limited six-man rotation.
Arizona had led for much of the first half, but Texas Tech took control just before halftime, pushing ahead 30-29 on Toppin’s jumper with 2:04 remaining. The teams entered the locker room tied at 32.
As the basketball season continues, this loss raises questions about Arizona’s ability to reclaim its dominance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Wildcats regroup for their next matchup.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Arizona searches for answers and Texas Tech celebrates a monumental victory.
